Then and Now: Spec Ops The Line

What is it? A 2012 third-person shooter by Yager Development. Set in Dubai after a destructive sand storm isolates the city. Focuses on actions of Captain Martin Walker & squad in their reconnaissance mission, as it takes a turn for the worst.

B) “This game’s hypocritical for being a war shooter about war, and it upsets me. Also, it’s clunky as all hell.”

C) “Just another average shooter. Don’t bother with the story.”

Now: Appreciated and respected by many. Complaints mostly about the “railroading” of player into morally compromising situations to force guilt – debated on many a forum. Generally seen as good game worth anyone’s time, that verges on greatness.

Also seen as the final death knell for any non-Call of Duty war shooter. General absence of such games since 2012 suggests it succeeded.